Over time one aspect of Formula 1 has become common knowledge, a driver is as good as his car. There is no doubt every driver on the grid is unique and brimming with talent. However, without the tools to showcase those talents, they go to waste or stay hidden. That is where the Formula 1 car comes into play and plays a massive role in helping these drivers showcase their talents and win races and championships. Although with a superior car even a rookie can challenge for a championship and almost win it, like Lewis Hamilton back in 2007. So to put it bluntly, it all comes down to one word, “luck”.
This is an assessment made by Lando Norris in the latest episode of F1: Beyond the Grid podcast. The Brit made this assessment while talking about the current state of McLaren. Naturally, Norris wanted to point out how the Papaya team has fallen off the mark compared to the Hamilton era. In saying so, Norris, like Fernando Alonso, pointed out how Hamilton was lucky.
Norris contrasted his situation with how Lewis Hamilton had a great time when he joined McLaren in 2007. He said, “Formula 1 just isn’t as simple as everyone wishes it is or thinks it is at times. You can be lucky you know. Lewis came into McLaren when they were winning races, winning championships.
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“So for someone to say are you trying to emulate Lewis Hamilton? I wish I could say yes but at the same time even if you’re the best driver in the world with the car you have now, not going to win races and not going to achieve a lot more for what I have. You have to be lucky. You have to have things go your way.”
Now, we are not sure how kindly will the fellow countryman will take Norris’s statement. However, one can’t deny the impeccable Hamilton’s impeccable timing.
Although we doubt the seven-time world champion will hold any grudges, he has won seven of them after all. In fact, despite being overshadowed by Norris in Austria, he was full of praise for the McLaren man.
Lewis Hamilton believes Lando Norris and George Russell will continue what he started in F1 to keep British drivers relevant
Hamilton is arguably one of the most popular figures to come out for Formula 1. We are sure, in times to come, we will come across many British drivers credit Hamilton for their love for the sport. However, Hamilton is not immortal and someone needs to carry this legacy for the sake of Britain. According to Hamilton, it will be his teammate George Russell and Lando Norris.
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“It’s not passing the baton, but knowing we have other great British drivers will prolong the success of the Brits moving forwards. Our fan base will always have good drivers [to cheer for] because we generally develop good drivers in the UK,” said Hamilton.
“George and Lando are both incredibly talented and have such a bright future ahead of them. It’s crazy to think they are as young as they are. Lando is 23 but has been here for ages. I’m excited to watch their journey and where they get to.”
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The British future is in safe hands. Or at least that is what Hamilton believes. It will be exciting to see if these two can rise up to that level and win championships. Perhaps the only two British drivers who can do it.
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